Finishing/Staining Help

[oilag11]

I'm currently working on my aquarium stand that is framed with 2x4s and being "skinned" with 1/2" walnut face panels (more info in my thread in the Getting Started forum), and I've got some questions about finishing the piece. Because this is an aquarium stand, it ultimately has to be waterproof, because it is walnut, the finish has to have some UV blocking capabilities. I don't want to stain the walnut, but I'd like it to finish a little darker than it is right now. I'd also like to stay away from the high gloss finish. Do the pros (ya'll) have any ideas?

Thanks!

[MikeMcCoy]

I've used the Waterlox marine varnish with good luck but I'm biased toward all Waterlox products.

http://www.waterlox.com/site/559/default.aspx

[oilag11]

I like the marine varnish idea, but that results in a high gloss finish, which I'd like to avoid if possible. Is there a way to get around that?

[cabinetman]

The UV factor for a finish is relatively unimportant unless it receives sunlight. It rates with indoor furniture for UV protection. How waterproof you may need it may depend on how messy your maintenance is. Water resistant is more in line with an appropriate finish, which most film finishes provide. Marine spar type varnishes are not recommended for indoor furniture.

I made two aquarium cabinets in our home and finished them with waterbased polyurethane in a satin finish. No moisture problems. Another choice might be is to use an oilbase polyurethane in a satin finish. You can apply it wipe on.
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[oilag11]

cabinetman,

what effect do the polyurethanes have on the appearance of the wood - darkening, lightening, etc? is there any difference in the appearance of the oil-based and the water-based polyurethanes? why aren't marine varnishes suggested for indoor situations? thanks for all the help!

[cabinetman]

cabinetman,

what effect do the polyurethanes have on the appearance of the wood - darkening, lightening, etc? is there any difference in the appearance of the oil-based and the water-based polyurethanes? why aren't marine varnishes suggested for indoor situations? thanks for all the help!

An oilbase varnish or polyurethane may darken and slightly add an amber effect. A waterbase polyurethane may add a deeper shade, but stay clear. Depending on the specie of wood, it would be like wetting the wood with a dab of water.

Spars typically have additives, like UV inhibitors, an alkyd modified tung oil, and phenolic resins, which are designed to keep the finish somewhat flexible, and doesn't cure hard. They could take weeks to cure depending on brand.
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